Let’s face it, Thanksgiving is a time for feasting. As much as we are happy to give thanks, what most of us are looking forward to is the meal itself. This isn’t a bad thing. But wouldn’t it be nice if we found ways to stay healthier on the annual day of overeating? Here’s a small list of ways you can feel a bit better as you push yourself away from the table this year.
1. Get Out and PlayHaving the family over for Thanksgiving is the perfect time to get out and be active together! Would you rather catch up with everyone huddled around the TV or outside over some fun backyard games? This is a great way for you and the family to get some much needed exercise before or after the big feast! Create memories for a lifetime and burn some calories in the process of creating a new holiday tradition.

2. Go Heavy on the Veggies

It’s easy to eat too much of the bad stuff on Thanksgiving. And you know who the culprits are: Stuffing, finger foods, chips, etc. The list goes on and on. I’m not saying to avoid these delectable holiday staples, just be sure to ration them. Go ahead and enjoy your favorites, but be reasonable! If you are still starving come time for the big meal, be sure to eat plenty of the vegetables at the table. You will feel better about the delicious desserts that are on their way!

3. Slow Down!
One of the biggest reasons for weight gain on Thanksgiving is over-eating. Sure, you may think this is a staple of the holiday. But, it certainly doesn’t have to be. You’ve waited all year for this moment. Shouldn’t your goal be to savor the meal? Eat as slow as you can. This will give your body time to realize it’s full and control its caloric intake. Be sure to put the fork down when your body says it’s had enough!

4. Lose the Diet for the Day
Don’t try to stick to a strict diet on Thanksgiving. It is simply unfair to your mental health to put unreasonable constraints on yourself during the holiday meal. Instead, focus on weight management. Don’t be thinking about weight loss on Thanksgiving, but rather an objective of maintaining your current weight. Save your diets for after the holiday when you can realistically achieve your goals.

5. Don’t Skip Breakfast

The big meal of the holiday is daunting. You know you are going to eat. And despite my advice, you will probably eat too much! That’s fine. But, the worst thing you can do is skip the most important meal of the day! Many people will opt to skip breakfast when the big meal is on the way. However, eating a healthy breakfast will kick-start your metabolism and prepare your body for the feast. Not eating in the morning will actually cause greater weight gain. So grab a light breakfast and your body will be thankful!

6. Take Time to Be Thankful
This may seem very straightforward and a bit cliché. However, there are few better ways to improve mental health than reflecting on what it is you and your family are thankful for. Take time out of the chaotic day to reflect on all of the good in your life and your mind will certainly be grateful.

These are just a few ways for you to be healthier this Thanksgiving. The important takeaway here is to have fun and not worry about your diet or weight gain so much. Follow these simple tips and you can feel confident about your health this holiday weekend!
By Pat DeRiso
Sources: webmd.com, huffingtonpost.com